First visit guide

What to expect on your first appointment.

No mystery. No "let's see how it goes." Here is exactly what happens on day one, in order, with rough timing for each step. Most first visits run about 45 minutes start to finish.

  1. 1

    Paperwork & benefits (15 minutes)

    Download the new-patient packet ahead of time or fill it out in the waiting room. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID. If you have current imaging (X-ray, MRI), bring it on a disc or send it ahead — saves a step.

  2. 2

    Conversation (20 minutes)

    Dr. Nguyen sits down with you. He listens first. What hurts, when, how long, what you have already tried, and what you actually need to be able to do — not just pain-free, but able to pick up your kid, sit through your commute, finish your half-marathon.

  3. 3

    Exam & imaging

    Orthopedic, neurologic, and range-of-motion tests. If imaging is needed, we will order it; if not, we will tell you that too. We do not X-ray every patient as a matter of course.

  4. 4

    Honest plan

    You will leave with a clear plan, a written estimate, and an answer to "how long until I feel better." No high-pressure sales pitch for a forty-visit prepaid program. Dr. Nguyen will tell you exactly what is indicated — and nothing that is not.

  5. 5

    Treatment, if you are ready

    Most new patients get their first adjustment the same day. If today is not the right day for treatment — you are in too much pain to tolerate it, you want to think about the plan, you need to talk to a spouse — that is fine. We will reschedule, no charge. Come to whichever location is convenient: Tacoma at (253) 292-7186 or Seattle at (425) 772-0251.

Request an appointment Call Tacoma (253) 292-7186
Welcome to Healing Choice Chiropractic
Insurance & payment

Straight answers before you ever swipe a card.

We verify your benefits before your first appointment so the front-desk conversation is short and there are no surprises on visit two.

If you are paying out of pocket

We publish a flat new-patient exam fee and a flat per-visit adjustment fee. We do not require pre-paid care plans. We do not bundle. If a service is not going to help you, we will not bill you for it.

L&I and auto accident

Washington Labor & Industries (L&I) and most auto / PIP policies are accepted at both locations. We document thoroughly and communicate with your attorney or insurance adjuster — you focus on getting better.

Plans we accept

  • Premera BlueCross
  • Regence BlueCross BlueShield
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • United Healthcare
  • Medicare
  • L&I (Washington Labor & Industries)
  • Most auto & PIP policies

Plan list current to 2026. We verify your specific benefits before your first appointment at either the Tacoma or Seattle location. Questions? Call (253) 292-7186 (Tacoma) or (425) 772-0251 (Seattle).

Common questions

What new patients usually ask first.

If the question on your mind is not here, just call us — we would rather answer it now than have you guess.

How long until I feel better?

Most new patients notice a meaningful change inside two to four visits. Chronic, long-standing issues take longer — Dr. Nguyen will give you an honest read after the first exam, not a generic 24-visit plan.

What is the difference between an adjustment and a massage?

A massage works on muscle and soft tissue. An adjustment is a precise, controlled movement of a specific joint to restore motion and reduce nerve irritation. Both have a place; we often use them in the same visit.

Is chiropractic care safe for children?

Yes — when done by a chiropractor trained to work on kids. Pediatric adjustments are remarkably gentle, often nothing more than fingertip pressure. Dr. Nguyen sees children at both the Tacoma and Seattle locations.

How many visits will I need?

It depends on what is wrong and how long it has been wrong. We do not sell prepaid packages. After your exam Dr. Nguyen will recommend a plan with a clear end-point, and he will revisit it with you as you progress.

Do I need a referral?

No. Chiropractors are primary-contact providers in Washington State. You can call us directly — no referral required.

Can I see the same doctor at both locations?

Yes — that is exactly the point. Dr. HuyTuong Nguyen sees patients at both the Tacoma and Seattle clinics. Your complete history travels with you. You will never be handed off to an associate you have never met.

What if I have been to a chiropractor before and did not like it?

Tell us why on the phone. There are dozens of techniques — if a high-velocity adjustment is not for you, there are gentler options (drop-table, instrument-assisted) that work just as well for many conditions.

Will an adjustment hurt?

Most patients describe the sound (the audible 'pop') as more startling than the sensation. The adjustment itself is quick and usually relieving. Dr. Nguyen will not surprise you — every movement is explained before it happens.

Ready when you are.

Request a new-patient appointment and we will call you back the same business day.

Request appointment Call Tacoma (253) 292-7186